Sockers reach new heights in new MISL

SAN DIEGO -- Saturday night's victory allowed the Sockers to
reach several levels not seen in more than a year. A 6-5 Major
Indoor Soccer League triumph over the Monterrey Fury before 2,247
at the Sports Arena stretched the club's winning streak to four,
its most consecutive wins in two seasons playing in the MISL.

Mariano Bollella put the game away with two goals in the final
11 minutes. Paul Wright came through with two goals and an assist,
while Mark Uhgy and Nino DaSilva were the other scorers.

This is the first time the Sockers (7-6) have been above .500
since Nov. 10, 2002, nine games into last season. Adjusting to the
physical style of the MISL the last two years has been a rough
transition, but coach Brian Quinn feels his players have finally
adapted.

"Our leadership in close games has been tremendous, and it has
been a huge factor," Quinn said. "We've had smoother games, but the
energy level was fantastic the whole game."

The Sockers are also in sole possession of the Western Division
lead over Dallas (8-7) by percentage points, which is another first
for the club since joining the new MISL.

"Coach always talks about being a winner, and now the players
are hearing it," Bollella said. "They believe in the jersey they
are wearing."